A Contract with Southern Baptists - Part 4

I began this series back before the SBC convention in June as a "What would I preach to the SBC if invited?" series. I believe that our denomination is in great need of revitalization. This series of posts seeks to answer the question, "What would revitalization in our convention emphasize?" I understand that our denomination is composed of diverse churches and diverse members. To attempt to make broad characterizations is to often miss the target. Nevertheless, this is what I think needs to be emphasized.

Baptists Must Be . . .

Based in Humility - a necessary foundation - part one

Authorized by Scripture - a necessary standard - part two

Powered by the Holy Spirit - a necessary energy - part three

Transformed by Worship - a necessary voice - Deuteronomy 6:13; 1 Chronicles 16:28-29; Nehemiah 8:5-6; Psalm 95:1-7; John 4:21-24; Romans 12:1; Revelation 4:9-11.

We have fallen into grave error by making the act of worship something that is only done on Sunday mornings for our own benefit and enjoyment. Every post I write and every comment I leave is potentially worship. Worship is the way in which I speak, the way in which I live, and the impression that I give. Worship is for God's pleasure alone and it has little to do with our desires or preferences. We have perhaps at times made the error of looking with contempt upon another's sacrifice of worship and by so doing have judged ourselves (2 Samuel 6:12-23). It is not simply style or even location--it's a matter of the heart. It is Spirit and it is Truth. Worship is an expression of love and passion toward the God who saves us. It is delight in the Lord. The voice of worship is a 24/7 call to the nations to exalt the Lord. Worship is all that we do and all that we are.

This post has been graciously reprinted at SBC Impact and is linked here.